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Optic Dermatitis

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Dermatitis is a general term used for describing any type of common skin ailment arising in the form of an inflammation, itching, blisters, nodules, eczema, or lesions. Optic dermatitis is one such type, which occurs as secondary complication of severe cases of atopic dermatitis. Optic dermatitis may not be classified amongst the various forms of eczema.

Those having atopic dermatitis generally tend to develop optic dermatitis, especially so when they also start displaying signs of pruritus and photophobia. Pruritus is a reflex condition that leads to a recurring desire to scratch. "Dennie-Morgan Fold" is also associated with the optic dermatitis. This is a fold often seen under the lower eyelid of patients suffering from optic dermatitis.

Occurrences of Optic Dermatitis

* One of the early signs of optic dermatitis is obtrusive darkening of infraorbital area in the patients having atopic dermatitis.
* Almost a quarter of patients suffering from optic dermatitis develop a condition called "atopic keratoconjunctivitis".
* Optic dermatitis is often accompanied by other associated complications like blepharitis and eyelid dermatitis.
* There is also a lot of itching sensation on the eyelids that indicates a case of optic dermatitis.
* In certain extreme cases optic dermatitis may also lead to a permanent damage to the eyes such as a loss of vision

Symptoms

There are various Symptoms, which can be observed when someone is suffering from optic dermatitis. Some of these are akin to commonly occurring ailments like Conjunctivitis and Blepharitis. The inflammation of eyelids is another common symptom of optic dermatitis. Hence, it is a must to take expert opinion in such cases since one may tend take the disease lightly in the initial stages.

In addition, there are also symptoms such as inflammation of the inner eye or eyelids, extreme sensation of burning, itching, and mucous discharge accompanied with excessive watering from the eyes of those suffering from optic dermatitis.

In cases that are more complicated, there is a constant desire to rub the eyes to get relief from itching. This may often lead to a permanent damage to eyes due to deformation of the Cornea.

Treatment

Optic dermatitis can be treated effectively if necessary care is taken and a dermatologist is consulted as soon as possible. Early diagnosis of Optic Dermatitis followed by proper treatment can bring relief relatively faster. At times, an ophthalmologist may also be able to decipher the symptoms and offer the necessary guidance. Eyes are the most sensitive organ of the body and as such one should never administer any lotions or medications without expert medical advice. This is even more important in case the complications have arisen from optic dermatitis, as these might cause permanent damage if not treated well in time.

In more serious cases, where there is vascularization and damage to the cornea due to optic dermatitis, care should be taken in case a cornea transplant is advised. This should be done only in cases when there is no other alternative, since such transplants have an inherent risk of rejection.